May’s theme combines the two things that make Beetle Cherry what it is – illustration and wildlife. When I first thought about relaunching Beetle Cherry as an ‘illustrated wildlife park’ it was because I believe in the power of visual images to tell stories, communicate and get people on board with what you believe. In terms of Beetle Cherry, that’s about endangered animals and conservation. I’ve got a loooong way to go in terms of making any teeny tiny difference the conservation world, but as I wrote about last month with living eco, its about doing the small bit you can to make a difference.

So I thought I’d spend a month looking at whether illustration specifically (as opposed to photography or watercolour) can play a part in saving endangered animals, and also how it can help us reconnect with the natural world (which in turn of course, makes us want to look after it). I also started up a Nature Journal last week, and seeing as that fits perfectly with this months theme, I’ll be working on keeping it up and sharing my pages with you. So pick up your crayons and sketchbook and lets go outside and DRAW STUFF!

My shop is now officially shut for a while, and I've donated the money you've helped me raise for the amazing work done by @durrell_jerseyzoo - a total of £90, amazing!! Every single purchase you've made will now play its small part in hands-on conservat… bit.ly/2Wci5x0pic.twitter.com/Mjmgu6kXM6